Category: HVAC Company

What is the Average HVAC System Lifespan? (And Helpful Tips to Extend It!)

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HVAC systems play a crucial role in maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures, ventilation, and air quality in our homes and workplaces. However, like any other mechanical equipment, HVAC systems have a finite lifespan. In this article, we will explore the average lifespan of HVAC systems and provide helpful tips on how to extend their longevity.

The Average Lifespan of HVAC Systems

The lifespan of an HVAC system can vary depending on several factors, such as the quality and brand of the equipment, regular maintenance, usage patterns, and environmental conditions. On average, a well-maintained HVAC system can last between 15 to 20 years. However, some systems may start experiencing efficiency issues or breakdowns after around 10 years.

Factors that Affect HVAC System Lifespan

Several factors can impact the lifespan of an HVAC system:

1. Maintenance: Proper and regular maintenance is essential to ensure the longevity of an HVAC system. Regular inspections, cleaning, and servicing by a professional HVAC technician can identify potential issues early and prevent major breakdowns.

2. Usage and Load: The frequency and duration of use also impact the lifespan of an HVAC system. Systems used year-round or subjected to heavy loads, such as in commercial spaces or homes with large families, tend to have a shorter lifespan.

3. Environmental Conditions: The climate and environmental conditions in which an HVAC system operates can affect its lifespan. Extreme temperatures, high humidity, airborne particles, and corrosive environments can put additional strain on the system, increasing wear and tear.

Tips to Extend the Lifespan of HVAC Systems

1. Regular Maintenance: As mentioned earlier, regular maintenance is crucial for extending the lifespan of an HVAC system. It is recommended to schedule professional HVAC inspections and maintenance at least once a year, preferably before the start of the heating or cooling season. This will ensure that any potential issues are addressed promptly, improving the system’s efficiency and reducing the risk of breakdowns.

2. Change Air Filters: Air filters play a vital role in maintaining indoor air quality and protecting the HVAC system from dust, dirt, and debris. Clogged filters restrict airflow, increase energy consumption, and put strain on the system components. Regularly changing the air filters, typically every 1-3 months, depending on usage and environmental conditions, will help keep the system running efficiently and extend its lifespan.

3. Clean Outdoor Unit: The outdoor unit of an HVAC system (the condenser unit) is exposed to outdoor elements, such as leaves, dust, and debris. Ensure that the unit is clean and free from obstructions. Regularly remove any debris and trim vegetation around the unit to allow for proper airflow.

4. Maintain Consistent Temperatures: Rapid temperature fluctuations can put stress on the HVAC system. It is recommended to set the thermostat to a consistent temperature and avoid frequent adjustments. This will allow the system to operate more efficiently and reduce unnecessary wear and tear.

5. Invest in Programmable Thermostats: Programmable thermostats allow you to set temperature schedules based on your daily routine. By automatically adjusting the temperature when no one is present or during sleeping hours, programmable thermostats help reduce energy consumption and give the HVAC system some rest, ultimately extending its lifespan.

6. Address Issues Promptly: If you notice any unusual sounds, strange odors, or inadequate heating/cooling, do not ignore them. These may be signs of underlying issues that, if left unaddressed, can lead to more significant problems and costly repairs. Contact a professional HVAC technician as soon as possible to diagnose and fix the problem.

Summary

Understanding the average lifespan of HVAC systems and implementing proper maintenance practices can help extend their longevity. Regular maintenance, changing air filters, cleaning the outdoor unit, maintaining consistent temperatures, utilizing programmable thermostats, and addressing issues promptly are all important factors in maximizing the lifespan of your HVAC system. By following these helpful tips, you can ensure that your HVAC system operates efficiently and provides comfort for many years to come.

Need HVAC Services in St. Louis, MO?

Keep cool or stay warm with Ashley Brothers Heating & Cooling. Since 1999, Ashley Brothers have been providing residential and commercial services to the St. Louis and Jefferson County area. We specialize in the installation of new equipment, heating and cooling repair, and furnace cleaning. Craftsmanship is important, equipment choice is too. We work with only top brands like Amana, Goodman, York, and McLain. It is understandable that replacing or upgrading your equipment can be daunting. Ask us about financing. We repair all heating and cooling equipment brands. Heating and cooling repairs can happen at random, take advantage of our 24-hour emergency service. Call us today about your concerns.

How Do You Prevent Your HVAC System From Freezing?

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As the temperature drops during the winter months, the possibility of your HVAC system freezing increases. A frozen HVAC system can lead to costly repairs and, in severe cases, a complete breakdown of your system. To avoid these issues and ensure that your heating and cooling system operates efficiently, it is essential to follow some preventive measures. In this blog, we will discuss some helpful tips and strategies to prevent your HVAC system from freezing.

1. Maintain Adequate Airflow

One of the primary causes of a frozen HVAC system is restricted or inadequate airflow. To maintain an optimal flow of air, make sure that all vents and registers are free from any obstructions such as furniture, curtains, or rugs. Additionally, it is crucial to regularly clean or replace air filters. A clogged or dirty air filter restricts airflow, leading to a decreased efficiency of your HVAC system and potentially causing it to freeze.

2. Insulate Your Home

Proper insulation is key to maintaining a consistent indoor temperature and preventing your HVAC system from freezing. Ensure that your home is properly insulated, especially in areas where your HVAC system is located, such as the basement or attic. Proper insulation will help keep the cold air out and the warm air in, preventing any freeze-ups.

3. Seal Ductwork

Sealing the ductwork is another effective way to prevent your HVAC system from freezing. Check for any leaks or cracks in the ducts and seal them properly. Leaky ducts allow cold air to enter, which can cause moisture to accumulate and freeze within the system. By sealing the ductwork, you can maintain a more stable and adequate temperature, reducing the risk of freezing.

4. Maintain Proper Thermostat Settings

Setting your thermostat correctly is essential for preventing your HVAC system from freezing. It is recommended to keep your thermostat at a minimum of 55°F (13°C) during the colder winter months, even if you are away from home. This will ensure that the heat is distributed evenly throughout the system, preventing any freeze-ups.

5. Schedule Regular HVAC Maintenance

Regular maintenance is essential to keep your HVAC system in top-notch condition and prevent freezing issues. Schedule yearly inspections and tune-ups with a professional HVAC technician. During these visits, the technician will examine your system, clean any dirt or debris, inspect the refrigerant levels, and ensure that all components are functioning correctly. Timely maintenance will detect any potential issues and allow for necessary repairs, helping to prevent freezing problems.

6. Clear Outdoor Unit

If you have an outdoor HVAC unit, it is important to keep it clear of any debris, snow, or ice. Accumulated snow or ice can restrict airflow and cause the system to freeze. Regularly check your outdoor unit and remove any obstructions. If you notice excessive ice buildup, turn off your system immediately and contact a professional HVAC technician to assess the situation.

Summary

Preventing your HVAC system from freezing requires proactive measures to ensure adequate airflow, proper insulation, and regular maintenance. By maintaining these practices, you can minimize the risk of freeze-ups and prolong the lifespan of your system. Remember to consult with a professional HVAC technician for any specific concerns or issues with your HVAC system. Stay proactive in maintaining your HVAC system to keep your home comfortable all year round.

Need HVAC Services in St. Louis, MO?

Keep cool or stay warm with Ashley Brothers Heating & Cooling. Since 1999, Ashley Brothers have been providing residential and commercial services to the St. Louis and Jefferson County area. We specialize in the installation of new equipment, heating and cooling repair, and furnace cleaning. Craftsmanship is important, equipment choice is too. We work with only top brands like Amana, Goodman, York, and McLain. It is understandable that replacing or upgrading your equipment can be daunting. Ask us about financing. We repair all heating and cooling equipment brands. Heating and cooling repairs can happen at random, take advantage of our 24-hour emergency service. Call us today about your concerns.

5 Reasons You Need an HVAC Maintenance Plan

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5 Reasons You Need an HVAC Maintenance Plan

The HVAC system in your home is a huge investment. That’s why it’s important to make sure that it’s always in good working order. Having an HVAC maintenance plan is a great way to keep your system running at peak performance and avoid costly repairs down the road. Here are 5 reasons you need to consider getting an HVAC maintenance plan:

Early Problem Detection

When it comes to HVAC systems, early problem detection is crucial. It means catching potential issues before they become a major repair bill or cause your family serious health risks. It also means avoiding problems that could lead to expensive replacements or repairs down the road, like carbon monoxide leaks. The good news is that smart analytics can be used to detect faults and problems in their earliest stages. This enables technicians to prevent breakdowns and reduce energy usage by 5-15%. This is a great advantage to anyone who wants their home or office to operate at peak efficiency and minimize their monthly utility bills. Especially if you have a young family or live in a climate where weather can be unpredictable, having an HVAC maintenance plan is essential to ensuring your system runs at its best.

Improved Energy Efficiency

When it comes to heating and cooling your home, it’s important that you have a system that can operate at peak efficiency. This can reduce your energy bills and keep you comfortable year-round. HVAC systems often require periodic inspections and maintenance to keep them running at optimal performance. Performing these tasks on a regular basis can help you save money on your energy bills and increase the lifespan of your HVAC system. When it comes to the air conditioning portion of your HVAC system, one of the most important steps is cleaning the coils. This ensures that the coils are free of dust and other debris that can reduce airflow and affect your system’s effectiveness.

Priority Service

When you sign up for a maintenance plan, you get priority service when it comes to HVAC issues. This is a big deal when you need air conditioning or heating urgently and want to avoid waiting in line for an appointment. A maintenance plan can also save you money in other ways. For example, many plans offer discounts on diagnostics and repairs that you might not otherwise get. In addition, most plans offer perks for joining the maintenance program, such as discounted rates for diagnostics and emergency services on weekends and holidays. This is especially important if you have young children or elderly family members who are prone to heat exhaustion in extreme temperatures.

Discounts On Repairs

When an HVAC maintenance plan is in place, you can get discounts on repairs that you might otherwise have to pay a lot for. Typically, these savings will come in the form of parts and labor discounts. These can add up to a substantial amount over time. Especially when you consider that most manufacturers require proof of annual maintenance before issuing an equipment warranty. Getting an HVAC service contract is one of the best ways to make sure your system stays in optimal condition and runs at peak efficiency for as long as possible. In addition, it can help you save money on energy bills year-round.

Maintain Equipment Warranty

Keeping up with annual maintenance of your equipment can help you avoid having to void your warranty in the future. Often, manufacturers will ask for documentation that your HVAC system has had routine maintenance performed, and neglecting this maintenance can have serious consequences. In many cases, your HVAC warranty can be void if you skip regular maintenance or use off-brand parts on your HVAC unit. For example, if you buy parts from an un-reputable company and install them on your unit, the manufacturer will not be able to guarantee that their product is working properly.

Top 5 Things You Need To Know About Your HVAC System

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As a homeowner, one of the best things you can do is familiarize yourself with the equipment that powers your home. In this instance, we are talking about your HVAC system. While it may not power the home itself, it does keep you comfortable throughout the year. Taking the time to get to know your HVAC system (as well as other systems in the home) will allow you to better understand potential issues and take care of them. 

#1: Clean Your Filters to Maintain Efficiency

Many homeowners fail to properly clean or replace their HVAC system air filters. These filters will not work efficiently once they become dirty. A dirty air filter will cause the system to work overtime to maintain the level of comfort you desire. It can also make your utility bills climb steadily. Clean your air filters at least once every three months to maintain system efficiency.

#2: Keep Your Air Vents Open To Reduce System Stress

A common question homeowners have regarding their HVAC system is “Does closing air vents redirect airflow?” It is often assumed that you can redirect the airflow of your HVAC system by closing off any air vents you don’t need currently. However, this will actually not redirect cool or warm air to other vents in the home. Instead, it adds stress to the system, which increases the overall risk of problems and the need for maintenance and repair.

#3: Maintain the Ducts

The ducting is an important part of the HVAC system that many homeowners tend to overlook. When ducts are not properly maintained, they may start leaking, resulting in 20 to 40% of energy waste. Sealing the ductwork can prevent leakage while reducing the overall stress on the HVAC system.

#4: Add Filters to Return Vents

As a general rule, the HVAC equipment itself is the only part of the system that includes an air filter. However, it is actually recommended that your return vents have an appropriately sized air filter. This is especially true for ceiling vents, but what do filters do in the ceiling? These filters will work alongside the main air filter to improve indoor air quality and protect the system from hair, dust, pet dander, pollen, and other contaminants.

#5: Schedule Routine Maintenance With a Licensed HVAC Technician

Routine maintenance of your HVAC system is a necessity for its longevity and efficiency. However, it is important to only work with a licensed and skilled HVAC technician with the knowledge, experience, and certifications to perform heating and cooling work.

Trust Our Saint Louis HVAC Professionals

If you need an HVAC system check-up, maintenance, or repair, contact the professional and licensed team at Ashley Brothers Heating & Cooling in Saint Louis, MO.

How To Save Energy Throughout Spring and Summer

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The warmer climates are often associated with beautiful flowers, barbecues, and uncountable outdoor activities. However, the hotter days can quickly become uncomfortable if you’re not prepared with adequate cooling techniques. For most people, the air conditioner seems to be the perfect cooling solution. If left to operate for long hours, your AC can quickly double or triple your utility bills. While it’s still among the best cooling solutions, you might want to learn how to save energy while keeping your home cool. Here are some of the tips we thought you should try.

Close the Windows During the Day and Open Them at Night

Windows allow sunlight and infrared heat into your home during the day. To allow ventilation into your home and keep the heat out, consider opening your windows in the morning, evening, and night. Use blinds to keep the sun out during the day. You can also buy window coverings that block the sun’s rays and use light-colored curtains that don’t absorb heat.

Cook Outdoors

Cooking, particularly grilling, can make cooling your home more challenging during the hot season. The heat produced spreads to the adjacent rooms, which leads to more air conditioner usage. To avoid overworking your AC and fans, start cooking outdoors. Spring and summer evenings offer an excellent opportunity to enjoy barbecues while having a great time with family and friends. You can even use charcoal and save electricity.

Use a Programmable Thermostat

One of the biggest mistakes people make leading to high energy bills is setting their thermostats colder than normal when they first turn on the air conditioner. Colder settings won’t cool your home faster. You’re simply overworking it, which eventually leads to excessive cooling and high power usage. Using a programmable thermostat allows you to turn your air conditioner on and off depending on where you’re. Smart thermostat settings for spring use your location to know where you’re and determine whether to turn the AC on or off.

Use Fans and Other Natural Methods To Cool Your Home

If you have trees providing shade to your home, your home is likely cooler than those receiving direct sunlight. If you have shade on a section of the house, you can use fans to direct the cold air to the warmer rooms. Turn off the lights during the day, take advantage of natural light, and seal all window and door cracks to ensure no hot air or cold air is going in or out.

Service Your Air Conditioner

One of the best ways to keep your energy costs down is by servicing your air conditioner. In fact, it should be on your priority list during spring cleaning. Routine maintenance of your AC helps prolong its lifespan and reduce the chances of costly repairs. When the AC is functioning optimally, it cools your home effectively, cutting your energy bills by 15 percent. You can hire HVAC professionals to inspect, repair, and replace parts to ensure the unit uses as little energy as required.

Need to make your air conditioner more energy efficient in Saint Louis, MO? The Ashley Brothers Heating & Cooling can help you save energy and keep your AC running efficiently throughout the seasons. For tune-ups, repairs, installations, and replacements, call us on (314) 835-1770, and we will be happy to help.